What does asthenic mean?
The term 'asthenic' refers to a lack of strength or energy, often used to describe a person or thing that is weak or feeble. This adjective can be used in various contexts, such as medicine, sports, or everyday life, to describe a condition or situation where someone or something is not functioning at their best. In medical contexts, asthenic is often used to describe patients who are experiencing fatigue or weakness due to a medical condition. In sports, it can be used to describe a player who is not performing at their usual level of strength or energy. The term is often contrasted with its antonym, 'strong', which describes a person or thing that is powerful or energetic. Overall, the term 'asthenic' is a useful descriptor for situations where someone or something is not functioning at their best.
adjective
Lacking strength or energy; weak or feeble.
- 1. Lacking strength or energy; weak or feeble.
"The asthenic patient struggled to complete the physical therapy exercises."
"The asthenic patient struggled to complete the physical therapy exercises."
"The team's asthenic performance in the second half of the game led to their defeat."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of asthenic
The word 'asthenic' comes from the Greek word 'asthenia', meaning 'weakness' or 'lacking strength'. It has been used in English since the 17th century to describe a lack of energy or strength.
Usage notes
In medical contexts, asthenic is often used to describe patients who are experiencing fatigue or weakness due to a medical condition. In sports, it can be used to describe a player who is not performing at their usual level of strength or energy.